Review Blog

Oct 27 2009

Santa's little helper by Angela McAllister and Daniel Howarth

Gullane Children's Books, 2009. ISBN 9781862337602.
(Ages 3-7) Rufus is a fidgety little white Arctic hare who can't stay still. When playing hide and seek, he goes a long way away so that his brothers and sisters won't find him and finally falls asleep. What a big surprise he has when he wakes up in Santa's sleigh!
This is a heart warming story which appeal to all those children who find it almost impossible to stop fidgeting. Rufus finally finds a way to use up his surplus energy by helping Santa deliver presents. Santa certainly appreciates his liveliness because it means that they finish early. Repetition and alliteration in the language will make it a good read aloud or a book for the emerging reader.
Howarth's illustrations bring to life the exuberant nature of the little hare and the warmth and kindness of Santa Claus. There is a lovely contrast between the icy blue of the Arctic and the gorgeous vivid colours of the sleigh filled with presents.
A delightful addition to the library's Christmas collection or as a gift.
Pat Pledger